“The most important things that children learn in school are not easily measured. The most meaningful things in life may, in fact, be immeasurable. The good news, however, is that the most important and meaningful things that we want children to learn and do in school can always be observed and described. This is precisely why it is so important to remember that the root word for assessment is assidere which literally means ‘to sit beside.’ Assessment is not a spreadsheet — it’s a conversation.“

So how does Bower recommend we assess? Make student work visible through projects, performances, portfolios, blogs, reflections, etc.

On a sad side note, Bower passed away recently of cardiac arrest. We can honor his life and contributions by reading his book or blog and applying his wisdom to re-think grades, tests, and our conceptions of education in general.